Things To Do
in Ascensión
Ascensión is a small town located in the eastern part of Bolivia. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including lush forests and rivers. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of indigenous and Spanish influences.
Ascensión offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and exploring local wildlife.
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $40
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby hills, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Bolivian landscape. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the vibrant flora and fauna.
Enjoy a traditional Bolivian lunch at a local eatery. Afterward, visit a nearby river for some leisure time and perhaps a refreshing swim.
As the sun sets, stroll through the town and take in the local architecture. End your day with a quiet dinner at a restaurant offering local delicacies.
Visit the local market to engage with vendors and experience the vibrant culture firsthand. Try some fresh fruits and local snacks for breakfast.
Join a guided tour focusing on the history of Ascensión and its people. Learn about local traditions and customs that shape this unique community.
Gather with locals at a community gathering to experience traditional music and dance. This is a great way to connect with the culture and make new friends.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a blend of indigenous and Spanish influences.
- Abundant natural beauty, including wildlife and lush landscapes.
- Low cost of living compared to many other regions in Bolivia.
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure activities.
- Limited access to healthcare and education facilities.
- Infrastructure may be underdeveloped in certain areas.
- Potential challenges with language barriers for non-Spanish speakers.
- Economic opportunities may be limited compared to larger urban areas.
Best Activities in Ascensión
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Andes mountains with various hiking trails that range from beginner to advanced levels.
Ascensión is home to diverse bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching enthusiasts. Bring your binoculars and enjoy the sights.
The rivers around Ascensión offer fishing opportunities where you can catch a variety of freshwater fish while enjoying the serene environment.
Engage with local communities, learn about indigenous cultures, and participate in traditional festivals and events.
Set up camp in the wilderness, surrounded by nature, and enjoy stargazing under the clear Bolivian sky.
Capture the rich biodiversity and unique landscapes of Ascensión and its surroundings with your camera.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ascensión with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ascensión
Visit one of these nice places.
The largest salt flat in the world, providing a breathtaking landscape of endless white during the dry season and stunning reflections during the wet season.
A stunning canyon offering dramatic rock formations and striking views, perfect for capturing the essence of Bolivia's natural beauty.
This historic mountain above Potosí offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape, ideal for unique photos that capture the essence of mining history.
A beautiful red lagoon known for its rich wildlife, including flamingos, framed by mountains, creating a vibrant and striking photography opportunity.
The 'Valley of the Moon' features unique lunar-like landscapes with eroded hills and rock formations that provide dramatic backdrops for photography.
An island in Lake Titicaca that offers stunning views of the lake and the Andes Mountains, along with ancient Inca ruins for a culturally rich photo opportunity.
Food in Ascensión
Ascensión Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delicious dish consisting of thin, breaded and fried beef or llama meat, served with rice, potatoes, and a fried egg. It can be found at traditional Bolivian restaurants like Mercado Central.
Must-Try!
These savory pastries are filled with a mix of meat, potatoes, peas, and a slightly sweet sauce. Look for them at local bakeries or street food stalls for an authentic experience.
This hearty dish features a mix of bite-sized pieces of beef, sausage, onions, and potatoes, all topped with a spicy sauce. It's a popular choice at eateries and food stalls throughout Ascensión.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ascensión better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a great place to sample an array of local flavors, from fresh fruits and vegetables to street food stalls offering traditional dishes like salteñas and grilled meats.
Visiting this market provides a chance to explore a wide variety of street food options, including empanadas, fried snacks, and refreshing natural fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Ascensión, it is customary to greet with a firm handshake, making direct eye contact. Friends may also exchange a kiss on the cheek as a sign of affection.
In Ascensión, locals tend to dress conservatively, especially when attending social events or religious functions. Wearing neat and modest clothing shows respect for the culture and its values.
Elders are highly respected in Bolivian culture. It is important to address them politely and listen to their advice and viewpoints. Avoid interrupting them during conversations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ascensión with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ascensión
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ascensión, Bolivia, tipping is generally appreciated in the service industry. A common practice is to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill in restaurants and cafes. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or adding a small amount as a tip is customary. Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a gesture of appreciation for good service.
Payments in Ascensión can be made in cash, primarily using Bolivianos, the local currency. Credit cards are accepted in many establishments, especially in larger businesses and tourist areas, but it's recommended to carry cash for smaller shops and markets. Mobile payment options are gradually becoming more popular, but may not be widely available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ascensión.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Ascensión, as the weather is generally cooler and drier. Expect plenty of sunshine and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the local flora and fauna.
During this time, Ascensión experiences heavy rainfall and higher humidity. While the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, some trails may be muddy or inaccessible. Expect occasional thunderstorms, but also a unique opportunity to witness the region's renewed wildlife.
This period attracts more tourists, leading to busier travel spots and accommodations. The weather is comfortable for outdoor activities, with temperatures ranging from cool to warm during the day.
Although it's rainy, visiting during the low season can offer lower prices for accommodations and tours. Fewer tourists mean a quieter experience, but potential travel disruptions due to weather should be anticipated.
Ascensión at Night
Hiking in Ascensión
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park known for its impressive canyons, rock formations, and dinosaur footprints. It offers various hiking trails that give hikers a chance to explore its unique landscape.
This mountain near Cochabamba offers challenging hikes with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and the city of Cochabamba itself. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
While primarily known for its salt flats, the area around Uyuni, including Isla Incahuasi, offers unique hiking experiences with stunning landscapes and rare flora.
Located in the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, this beautiful green lagoon is surrounded by hiking trails that provide magnificent views of the mountains and unique wildlife.
An adventurous trek that connects La Paz to Coroico, offering diverse ecosystems and beautiful landscapes. This multi-day hike offers a chance to experience Bolivian nature and local culture.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ascensión through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ascensión by plane.
The main international airport serving Santa Cruz de la Sierra, located approximately 280 km from Ascensión.
Situated in Cochabamba, this airport is about 400 km away from Ascensión and serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in La Paz, this airport is roughly 500 km from Ascensión and is one of the busiest airports in Bolivia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Includes various indigenous groups such as the Guaraní and Chiquitano, who have a significant cultural and demographic presence in the region.
The largest demographic group in Ascensión, comprising mixed heritage individuals of European and Indigenous ancestry.
Includes descendants of Spanish and other European immigrants, contributing to the cultural and economic landscape of Ascensión.
A smaller community, primarily residing in specific areas, contributing to the cultural diversity in Ascensión.
This includes immigrants from various regions and countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
The Soul of Ascensión
Discover the essence of Ascensión through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Ascensión, Bolivia, widely played and followed by the local community.
A growing sport in Ascensión, enjoyed by many youth and adults alike, with local leagues and informal games.
A popular team sport, especially among women, played in schools and community events.
An increasingly popular activity for both recreation and sport, with local competitions and bike paths.
Various track and field events are practiced, often organized in schools and local sports clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ascensión.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Bolivian cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes in Ascensión now offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes like quinoa salads, vegetable stews, and fresh fruit-based desserts.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free alternatives in some of the modern eateries in Ascensión, with options such as corn-based empanadas and cassava-based dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ascensión with these cultural adventures.
